RECESS fills a unique niche in Montreal’s cityscape. While the city is replete with gyms and the concept of cold plunges is well-known in the wellness community, it was missing a venue where thermal baths serve as both a wellness practice and a social platform. Future Simple Studio has embarked on this 4,500-square-foot endeavor in Griffintown, introducing what they claim to be Montreal’s inaugural social hot-cold circuit. Founded by Adam Simms and Marilyne Gagné, RECESS is designed not just as a spa but as a modern-day sanctuary that invites individuals to slow down, rejuvenate, and enhance connections with themselves and those around them.
Ancient Roman thermae were more than just places for health; they were hubs of social and economic exchange, where societal roles were defined and business transactions were made. While RECESS does not mimic this ancient model exactly, it is inspired by the idea that a shared challenging physical experience can foster a unique type of social interaction that goes beyond mere small talk.
The experience at RECESS is structured as a 75-minute cycle that includes 20 minutes of heat exposure, followed by a two-minute cold plunge, and periods of rest and social interaction. This sequence, designed by Future Simple Studio, is intended to facilitate a balance between personal rejuvenation and community engagement, with each area designed to encourage different types of interactions.
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Another feature is a corridor enclosed by frosted glass panels that leads to a lounge area post-plunge. This room is surrounded by softly draped curtains that not only add to the ambiance but also function as screens for various visual displays, including art installations, DJ performances, and guided breathing exercises. These elements help to create an environment that extends the communal aspect of the thermal experience, establishing RECESS as both a wellness retreat and a cultural hub.
The design includes a distinct architectural feature: a large, freestanding cylindrical structure set within a rectangular space. This design is purposeful, facilitating group activities that focus on breathwork and shared experiences, enhancing both the physical and social aspects of the space.
Following the heat segment, visitors encounter an artistically arranged series of showers hidden behind stone structures, simulating a refreshing natural rainfall. This leads to a communal cold plunge pool, illuminated by soothing blue light and designed to accommodate twelve people. This immersive experience not only helps in physiological recalibration and the release of endorphins but also sets the stage for renewed social interactions with a refreshed dynamic.
Ultimately, RECESS offers more than just spa services—it provides a carefully crafted environment for fostering connection, turning the practice of contrast therapy into a communal ritual in a city where digital interactions often replace personal connections.
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